Civil Rights Intern Jobs in New Jersey (NOW HIRING)

ACLU-NJ Digital Communications Intern
The American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey (ACLU-NJ) seeks a highly motivated undergraduate student for a summer internship in our communications department. This internship is full-time for ten weeks, from June through August. Interns can expect a hybrid work schedule, with Tuesdays and Wednesdays being in-person in our Newark office.
Overview
The ACLU-NJ is one of the largest ACLU affiliates in the country and the premier civil rights and liberties advocacy organization in New Jersey. At the ACLU-NJ, students will contribute to a broad range of cutting-edge civil rights and liberties work. Please click here to see a list of some of the issues the ACLU-NJ works on.
The digital communications intern will work across departments to create digital communications that engage and educate the public on ACLU-NJ's key priorities. The intern will contribute to the day-to-day functions of the department and will develop social copy, email blasts, editorial, multimedia, and web content. They will also gain experience in analyzing reporting data and making recommendations from key performance indicators of digital campaigns.
This is an opportunity for the selected candidate to learn about the responsibilities of digital content creation and advocacy communications. The ACLU-NJ endeavors to provide other professional development opportunities such as presentations and Q&A sessions with renowned attorneys, activists, and other institutional partners in New Jersey.
The successful applicant will be paid $21 per hour for 30 hours of work per week and will be expected to work in the office two days per week. The ACLU-NJ will not consider a student's external funding in reviewing applications and making offers.
Qualifications
Prerequisites include:

• Strong oral, written, and editing skills.

• Familiarity with online platforms including LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads, Bluesky, YouTube, and graphic design software like Canva and Adobe Express.

• Experience in Excel, Google Sheets, or other data management software.

• Good interpersonal and analytical skills.

• Interest in graphic design and video editing a plus, but not required.

• A commitment to racial and social justice, civil liberties, and civil rights.

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work inclusively across lines of difference in a variety of settings.

How to Apply
Applicants must submit application materials, including a cover letter, resume, and a writing sample here. If the candidate is selected for an interview, references and unofficial transcripts may be requested. The application deadline is April 24th, 2026, for a June 2nd 2026, start date.
The ACLU-NJ is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. We value a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture of belonging. It is our policy to employ qualified people without regard to race; color; religion; sex; national origin; age; ancestry; disability; sexual orientation; veteran's status; marital status; civil union status; arrest or court record; citizenship; credit history; genetic information; gender identity or expression; status as a victim of domestic violence, sexual violence, or stalking; or any other characteristic protected under federal or state law. The ACLU is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you are a qualified individual with a disability and need assistance applying online, please send an email here. If you are selected for an interview, you will receive additional information regarding how to request accommodation for the interview process.